Our story begins in 1988 when Peacemakers Trust began with three families and two singles. The three families put all of their own money into the place, and the Anglican Church gifted some finance. The Trust acknowledges these pioneers and their hard work and is grateful for this sacred space we call home.
These three families established gardens, fencing, and restored the old villa to its former glory for the ministry to ‘at risk youth.’ One family lived in the villa with the youth.
Two more houses were built, and the other families moved into these. All supported the youth work doing various tasks.
Over time families moved on, others came.
Our historical villa was built by Captain Fordyce for his two sons and their families.
In 2012 people living here established the beautiful ‘ngahere rongoa’ a medicinal garden of native trees with the vision of one day having teaching spaces for the use of our indigenous wisdom. We are using plants from here now for ourselves.
In 2014 the Trust decided on more inner renovations creating a more user-friendly space for people wanting single and small group retreats.
Today we run a retreat centre for groups, singles, debriefing, and spiritual direction. It is a space where people experience sacred peace and healing. We grow our vegetables and fruit for all year round scrumptious eating.
Trustees Bio
Andrew Connolly
Andrew lived at Peacemakers in 1988 as a single along with the original three families. Then went overseas living in the slums of Manila with Servants. Andrew has a Masters in Counselling and has worked as a counselor with men, young men (10+) and their families since 2002.
Find out more about Andrew at Counselling Creatively
Susannah Connolly
Susannah met Andrew in the slums of Manila. Upon returning home and having children, Susannah trained in Spiritual Direction and Counselling. She offers Spiritual Direction, counseling, Debriefing, and Supervision.
Find out more about Susannah at Counselling Creatively
Ron Rolston
Ron is a counselor and senior Elder mentor for Man Alive. Ron brings wisdom and compassion to the work of Peacemakers. Ron is on the executive of New Zealand Christian Counsellors Association and has the mandate of bringing more synergy with Te Tiriti O Waitangi for the association.
Paul Stroobant
Paul lives locally and runs a Clydesdale breeding and training business. He offers the Trust expertise in business and discernment, bringing a new perspective and challenge to us who live here. He has a background in marketing and business and offers us these gifts.
